After the pandemic in 2020, the popularity of people preparing their own wills grew. As many of us realized after the pandemic, it is more important than ever to put legal affairs in order. While I always recommend contacting a lawyer to prepare your estate planning documents, if you decide to prepare your own last will, here is some helpful information that would have saved my past clients a lot of grief.
Many people I have worked with over the years come to me not really knowing what an estate plan includes. Most have heard the terms “living trust” and “last will”, but are not sure what they need, or how a trust or a will can help them. We can help you determine what the best estate plan is for you.
Proper estate planning by an attorney who is a member of the LGBTQ+ community ensures you are working with someone who understands your unique needs. Ensuring your assets will go to who you want, your estate is managed by the person of your choice, and in the event you are incapacitated, your medical decision and financial matters are handled by the person you want, is essential to protecting yourself as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
We often do not think about death and its impact until we, or someone we love, has experienced the pain and confusion that comes with losing a loved one. I would be very happy to help you and your loved ones navigate through protecting your home and family today. If you have questions, or would like to learn more about the difference between a living trust and a will, please contact our office at (760) 673-7600.
Estate planning is personal. When selecting your estate planning attorney, it is important to work with someone who understands your unique needs, including where you come from, where you're going, and the people who matter most to you; all essential elements to creating an estate plan that works for you.
It is important to review your trust if there are significant changes in your personal circumstances, such as a death, a divorce, the birth of a child or grand-child, or if there have been significant changes in your personal finances.
The best way to protect your home from probate is to transfer it into a Living Trust. Creating a Living Trust allows for the easy transfer of your home and saves thousands of dollars after you pass away.
Preparing for the administration of your digital assets upon your incapacity or death should be part of your comprehensive estate plan. Learn more about updating or creating your estate plan, which may include digital assets.
Living trusts are created for many reasons, including (1) avoiding probate; (2) maintaining privacy; (3) planning “trust funds” for beneficiaries who need assistance managing their inheritance; and (4) incapacity planning.
An important part of your estate plan is providing for those who depend on you – especially your pets! A Pet Trust is the best way to provide for your beloved dog, cat, bird or other cherished pet, and to ensure their proper care if you pass away before them.